Toyota recently showcased the all new Prius C Concept at the Detroit motor show. Like the original Prius, the Prius C Concept also runs via a hybrid powertrain. According to Toyota, this concept will provide the inspiration for a Yaris-sized Prius supemini that will be launch in North America in the first half of 2012. Toyota claims this will be the most efficient and best value hybrid car in any segment yet.
Toyota is keen to offer an even more efficient smaller hybrid at a lower price point and to that end will aim the production version of the C Concept at “young singles and couples who want an eco-sensitive, high-mileage, fun-to-drive Prius”.
Nearer to the launch date, a toned-down version will be showcased which will closer to actual production. Toyota promises that it will be the most fuel-efficient hybrid (that doesn't need a plug) and will be the most "value-oriented hybrid”.
Toyota has sold about close to a 100 Prius cars in India since its launch last year. The Japanese giant has racked up almost one million Prius sales in 10 years in the US alone and sees the name as a prize asset having becoming almost a by-word for hybrids. Toyota also showed another model in its Prius lineup, the Prius V, which is an MPV based off the original Prius.